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Growing Chinese economic and naval power has stoked fears of an arms race in the Pacific and Indian Ocean. Despite experiencing slowed economic growth, the Chinese juggernaut is driving full force ahead and it surpassed the United States as the world’s largest economy on October 9. With accumulated wealth, comes a willingness to use it and President Xi Jinping is eager to put every penny towards the Chinese dream. The end goal of the Chinese state, the Chinese Dream is the idea of a national rejuvenation, a strong and independent China that charts its own course, and finally a peaceful international order built on co-operation and trust. As China grows in power, so too will the dream grow in prominence. Unfortunately for the Chinese, other Asian states including India, Japan, and Vietnam are unconvinced. In particular, the idea of a strong China has them concerned.

The launch of the aircraft carrier is a part of China’s naval expansion plan which has also seen the development and launch of fully capable nuclear submarines. Partly emblematic of China’s great power status, they are nonetheless extremely useful as a strategic force. Fulfilling roles in deterrence and offence, nuclear submarines are meant to operate over long ranges, long periods and cover large territories undetected.

Indeed, it would appear that direct Chinese competition with the United States has a long road to travel. If the Chinese dream is one of violent hegemony, then it appears set to experience major challenges down the road internally, from the actors already reacting against it, and from the United States. If, however, the dream is peaceful, China may yet be able to settle at a comfortable position in the international system without resorting to violence and trying to confront its detractors, and foreseeable American military power.